Tribal tradition: Escape from Las Vegas to Albuquerque for the Gathering of Nations

If your ideal getaway includes taking in the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of a one-of-a-kind cultural event, then Albuquerque in late April is the destination for you.

New Mexico's largest city is home to the annual Gathering of Nations Powwow, the largest celebration of Native American culture on the continent. The event draws participants from nearly 800 tribes in the U.S. and Canada for two days of dancing, contests, music, food and crafts.

Now in its 36th year, the powwow welcomes Native and non-Native people alike, and the stages, booths and events are open rain or shine.

The powwow opens April 25 with the Miss Indian World cultural pageant and continues through April 27 at the powwow grounds in Albuquerque. While you're there, you can take advantage of the other attractions in and around the Duke City, from New Mexico's unique fusion of Native, Hispanic and Anglo cuisine to the inspiring vistas on a hike in the high desert.

It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Las Vegas to Albuquerque in that time frame, and the prices aren't too shabby.

So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list.

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Top Albuquerque hotels

Regarding where to stay, here are some of Albuquerque’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.

The Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town (800 Rio Grande Blvd. NW)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for an inexpensive place to stay, consider The Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town. The hotel has a 4.8-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $99.

This Albuquerque spa hotel is located in the historical district, near the Albuquerque Museum, the Old Town Plaza and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. Additional attractions include the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Situated near the airport, this Albuquerque hotel is also close to the University of New Mexico and the Rio Grande Zoo, as well as the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Additional attractions include the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Featured Albuquerque food and drink

Albuquerque has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.

The Frontier Restaurant (2400 Central Ave. SE)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

If you're looking for a local favorite, head to The Frontier Restaurant, which has an average of 4.7 stars out of 28 reviews on Skyscanner. The Frontier Restaurant has served the Albuquerque area and the University of New Mexico community since 1971.

"The five-star rating is for more than just the food," wrote visitor Susan. "This local landmark restaurant has been an Albuquerque go-to for decades, with an eclectic menu and kitschy decor, which leans heavily on John Wayne-themed art."

Antiquity Restaurant (112 Romero St. NW)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Another popular dining destination is Antiquity Restaurant, with five stars from seven reviews. It features seafood, lobster, steaks, veal, chicken and pork.

"This is your quiet date night restaurant in Old Town," wrote reviewer Susan. "The food is great and service is impeccable."

Duran Central Pharmacy (1815 Central Ave. NW)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

Also worth considering is Duran Central Pharmacy, which has a unique restaurant and pharmacy setting and is a frequent stop for locals and tourists. All of the food is made in-house, including the hand-rolled tortillas.

"This place uses local and organic ingredients in their food and puts a gourmet spin on some of the classic breakfast items," wrote Christy. "For example, the burrito is made with goat cheese, house-made green chiles and Tully's sausage. Also, the Grove Pancakes are served with fresh fruit and créme fraiche."

Top Albuquerque attractions

Albuquerque is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are two popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.

The Sandia Peak Tramway (30 Tramway Road NE)

Photo: Trip by Skyscanner

First up is The Sandia Peak Tramway, which stretches from the northeast part of the city to the crestline of the Sandia Mountains, giving it its name.

The tramway contains the world's third longest single cable car span. It first entered service in 1966 and makes over 10,000 trips every year.

"No visit to Albuquerque is complete without a trip on the tram!" wrote Alyce. "Travel a distance of 2.7 miles over 15 minutes' time via the tram to an altitude of 10,378 feet. Soak up the 11,000-square-mile panoramic view."

Located in Old Town, it's dedicated to preserving and educating the public about the region's art and history.

"This is a sweet little museum with a good permanent collection and interesting exhibitions. If you are an art lover, check it out," wrote Kathleen.

This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.